The early 60s all the way up to the 70s was a golden age for the American automotive industry if only for the simple fact that muscle cars were growing not just in number, but in overall stature. And the models only grew in popularity as more and more people began clamoring for the biggest, baddest, and most powerful machines. The general appeal these muscle cars offered to the growing American car culture of the time was the opportunity to own powerful cars that could be used for drag racing while also keeping costs at bay. It’s not going to compare to the 60s or the 70s, but as proven by customer clamoring, the culture of American muscle cars is far from bearing its last legs. To pay tribute to the time where muscle was king of the road – and the drag strip – we have compiled a list of the 25 fastest muscle cars of the golden age.
25. 1971 Plymouth Road Runner
This Plymouth Road Runner was a bit different from other year’s for a few reasons. For starters, the ’71 model features the second-generation production line for the vehicle class. It had a much more rounded type fuselage, which kept it more current with Chrysler body styles and designs at the time. However, the engine features an 8.7:1 compression from its 383 detuned engine outfitted with hardened exhaust valve seats. Of course, this was the lower engine class. You could opt for the 440+6 426 Hemi if you really wanted some power. There’s just something about speed and performance that drives us to stand in awe of muscle cars and want them all the more. That’s the case with the ’71 Road Runner, and why they are an undisputed member of the fastest American muscle cars from the 60s and 70s.
ET/MPH 13.71@101.2 – Engine 440 Six BBL – Horsepower 390 – Transmission Automatic – Gear 4.1 – Source CC 1/71